Divine Conduct, or The Mystery of Providence

(3.) The Introductiveness of a Providence, is of special regard and consideration, and by no means to be neglected by us. There are leading Providences, which how slight and trivial soever they may seem in themselves, yet in this respect justly challenge the first rank among Providential favours to us; because they usher in a multitude of other mercies, and draw a blessed train of happy consequences after them. Such a Providence was that of Jesse's sending David with provisions to his Brethren that lay encamped in the Army, 1 Sam. 17. 17. And thus every Christian may furnish himself out of his own stock of Experience, if he will but reflect, and consider, the Place where he is, the Relations that he hath, and the Way by which he was led into them.

(4.) The Instruments employed by Providence for you, are of special consideration. And the finger of God is clearly seen by us when we pursue •hat meditation. For,

(4.) The Instruments imployed by Providence for you, are of special consideration. And the finger of God is clearly seen by us when we pursue •hat meditation. For,

Sometimes great mercies shall be conveyed to us by very improbable means, and more probable ones laid aside. A stranger shall be stirred up to do that for you, which your near relations in nature had no power or will to do for you. Jonathan, a mere stranger to David, clave closer ⟨p. 131⟩to him, and was more friendly and useful to him, than his own Brethren, who despised and slighted him. Ministers have found more kindness and respect from strangers, than their own people that are more obliged to them,